United Democratic Party (UDP) presidential candidate Cyrus Jirongo has been cleared by IEBC to vie for the presidency. While speaking to the press in Nairobi after his clearance on Monday, Jirongo said he had to pursue what his heart desired and what he deemed right for the country after failed talks with NASA leaders including Moses Wetangula and Musalia Mudavadi. “I was with them in NASA, but there are a few things I couldn’t agree with and I left them alone,” said Jirongo, adding that he pursued his conscious much more than perceptions.
He reiterated that there was a long period of negotiations that bore no fruits, “I stand my ground when something is wrong, it’s wrong,” said Jirongo. He said that he isn’t betraying the Luhya consciousness, and insisted that Luhya nation is still part of Kenya and everyone has a right to choose what he wants.
The UDP candidate said his agenda includes handing Kenya back to the people, back to the citizens, “We need to ensure that Kenyans feel they own their country, we need inclusivity,” he said. He said that as a party, they have a clear mind, and know exactly what ails the country, “We are ready to face the challenge.” He indicated that he has no problem with numbers and support, “Give me thirty days and ask me that question on numbers, the numbers we do have.”